Arts and Crafts and Creative Events at Durlston Country Park

🎨 Arts, Crafts & Creative Events at Durlston Country Park, Swanage 🎨

Durlston Country Park hosts a vibrant programme of art exhibitions, talks and creative workshops throughout the year, celebrating local talent and offering hands-on experiences in an inspiring coastal setting. From powerful photography and community-led exhibitions in the Fine Foundation Gallery, to specialist craft workshops led by expert makers, there’s something for art lovers and curious creatives alike.

Many exhibitions are free to view, with workshops and talks priced to suit a range of budgets.

🖼️ Exhibitions at the Fine Foundation Gallery

📸 Unseen / Unmasked

31 January – 12 February | 10:00am–4:00pm

A powerful photographic exhibition by Harris (The1Harris), sharing experiences of neurodivergence — including his own — to explore identity, perception and the idea of “unmasking”.

📍 Fine Foundation Gallery

🌊 Durlston and the Sea

14 February – 5 March | 10:00am–4:00pm
📍 Fine Foundation Gallery

Discover the wildlife and fascinating history of Durlston hidden beneath the waves in this engaging exhibition exploring the park’s close relationship with the sea.

🎟️ Free entry

🌸 We All Bloom Differently

8 – 21 March | 10:00am–4:00pm
📍 Fine Foundation Gallery

An exhibition by Dorset Care Leavers inviting visitors to reflect on preconceptions around being ‘care experienced’, sharing personal stories, thoughts and emotions through art and creativity.

🎟️ Free entry
🕒 Open daily

✂️ Creative Workshops & Drop-In Activities

🖋️ Wood Engraving Workshop

21 March | 10:30am–4:00pm
📍 Learning Centre

Join printmaker Robin Mackenzie to create your own wood engraving in this in-depth, hands-on workshop.

💷 £85 per person (including materials)
🎟️ Booking required

🥂 Glass Engraving Workshop

28 March | 11:00am–12:30pm
📍 Learning Centre

Join Rob Page from the South West Guild of Glass Engravers to learn the art of glass engraving. No experience needed — suitable for adults and children aged 8+.

💷 £15 per person
🎟️ Booking required

🌿 Nature Pendant Drop-In

3 April | 11:00am–2:00pm
📍 Belvedere

Drop in anytime to create your own nature-inspired pendant — a relaxed and creative activity for all ages.

💷 £3.50 per person

🥂 Glass Engraving Workshop

4 April | 11:00am–12:30pm
📍 Learning Centre

Another chance to take part in this popular glass engraving workshop with Rob Page.

💷 £15 per person
🎟️ Booking required

🖌️ Art Workshop with Madelaine Devenay

11 April | 11:00am–1:00pm

Learn to paint landscapes and seascapes using pen and wash techniques in this friendly workshop for beginners and intermediate artists.

👩‍🎨 Adults & children (8+) welcome
🎨 Materials provided
💷 £25 per person
🎟️ Booking required

🖨️ Introduction to Linocut Workshop

18 April | 10:30am–4:00pm

Join printmaker Robin Mackenzie to learn reduction linocut techniques in this full-day workshop.

💷 £85 per person (including materials)
🎟️ Booking required

A brilliant mix of creativity, community and culture — all set against the dramatic backdrop of Durlston’s coastline 🌊🎨

Durlston Country Park

Located in Swanage Durlston Country Park is an expansive, clifftop nature reserve with amazing views and walks. Plus a visitor centre / gallery in a renovated Victorian castle.

Find out more about Durlston Country Park and their upcoming events

 Note: This event listing is a guide only. For up to date information and or changes to the event please check with the organiser or venue.